Black Cuckooshrike
NameBlack Cuckooshrike
Common NameBlack Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameCampephaga flava
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent, bright yellow patch on the bend of the wing. Adult females have dark brown upperparts, a yellow rump, and pale underparts heavily barred with dark brown and white.
Vocalization / CallIts call is typically a series of high-pitched, whistling notes, often described as a 'twee-twee-twee' or 'swee-swee-swee' sound, sometimes accelerating into a trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread in sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black plumage (male), Bright yellow shoulder patch (male), Barred underparts (female), Arboreal foraging behavior, Whistling call
Description
The Black Cuckooshrike is a medium-sized passerine, with males displaying striking glossy black plumage and a bright yellow shoulder patch. Females are more camouflaged with barred underparts. These arboreal birds primarily feed on insects, foraging actively in the tree canopy.
